Effort Quote by Seth Godin
“One theory says that if you treat people well, you're more likely to encourage them to do what you want, making all the effort pay off. Do this, get that. Another one, which I prefer, is that you might consider treating people with kindness merely because you can. Regardless of what they choose to do in response, this is what you choose to do. Because you can.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Tribes by Seth Godin, 2008
Treating people well can be a strategic tool, but true kindness should be unconditional, not merely instrumental.
In simple terms: Kindness can be strategic or genuine.
Key Takeaway
Choose kindness for its own sake.
Themes
leadership
ethics
motivation
Mood
thoughtful
balanced
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- team building
- customer service
- personal relationships
- management
- volunteering
Key Concepts
reciprocity
intrinsic motivation
instrumental behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you act kindly when no reward is visible?
- How does genuine kindness affect trust?
A Different Perspective
Kindness may be exploited if perceived as manipulative.
![“Bernie [Ecclestone] is the commercial rights holder so the more outgoing the champion is, the better. Of course. I also do think about our sport and want to make an effort - but in my own way. I am Nico [Rosberg] and not Lewis [Hamilton]!” quote by Bernie Ecclestone](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/15c/bernie-ecclestone-8452_champion_bernie-ecclestone-is-the-commercial-righ_2948.jpg)
